You just got quoted $95 for a dog groom and you're wondering: is that normal? Short answer — probably yes. Dog grooming prices have risen steadily over the past few years, and in 2026, the national average sits between $50 and $120 depending on your dog's size, coat type, and the services included.
This guide breaks down exactly what you should expect to pay, what drives the price, and how to get the best value without sacrificing your dog's care.
Average Dog Grooming Prices by Size (2026)
Size is the single biggest factor in grooming cost. A bigger dog means more time, more product, and more physical effort for the groomer. Here's what you'll typically pay for a full-service groom (bath, blow-dry, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning):
| Dog Size | Examples | Average Price | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | Chihuahua, Yorkie, Maltese, Shih Tzu | $45 | $30–$65 |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Corgi | $65 | $50–$85 |
| Large (50–80 lbs) | Golden Retriever, Lab, Husky | $85 | $65–$110 |
| X-Large (80+ lbs) | Great Dane, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard | $110 | $90–$150 |
| Doodles (any size) | Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, Bernedoodle | $95 | $75–$130 |
Why doodles get their own row: Doodle coats take significantly longer to groom than straight-coated dogs of the same size. A 60-pound Goldendoodle takes 2–3 hours. A 60-pound Labrador takes about 1 hour. Same weight, double the work.
Grooming Prices by Service Type
Not every visit needs the full treatment. Here's what individual services typically cost:
Bath and Brush-Out
The basics: shampoo, conditioner, blow-dry, and brush. No haircut included.
- Small dogs: $25–$40
- Medium dogs: $35–$55
- Large dogs: $50–$75
This is ideal for short-coated breeds that don't need haircuts — Labs, Beagles, Boxers, and similar. For double-coated breeds like Golden Retrievers, a bath and de-shed is usually the right choice between full grooms.
Full-Service Groom
Everything: bath, blow-dry, haircut/trim, nail trim, ear cleaning, and sanitary trim. This is the standard appointment for breeds that need regular haircuts — Poodles, doodles, Bichons, Schnauzers, and similar.
- Small dogs: $40–$65
- Medium dogs: $55–$85
- Large dogs: $75–$120
Nail Trim Only
A standalone nail trim typically costs $10–$20. Many groomers offer walk-in nail trims without an appointment. If you're getting a full groom, nails are almost always included.
De-Shed Treatment
A specialized service for heavy shedders. Uses high-velocity dryers and de-shedding tools to remove loose undercoat. Particularly valuable during spring and fall blowout seasons.
- Small–medium dogs: $40–$60
- Large dogs: $60–$90
Teeth Brushing
An add-on service: $5–$15. Not a replacement for veterinary dental care, but good for maintenance between cleanings.
What Affects the Price of Dog Grooming?
That price range isn't random. Several factors push your bill higher or lower:
1. Coat Condition (The Biggest Variable)
A well-maintained coat grooms quickly. A matted coat can double or triple the price. If a groomer needs to spend 45 extra minutes carefully working out mats — or if the coat is so matted it needs a complete shave-down — you'll pay for that time.
How to avoid this: Regular brushing at home between appointments. For doodles and other high-maintenance coats, brush to the skin every 2–3 days. For double-coated breeds, 3–4 times per week.
2. Breed and Coat Type
A smooth-coated French Bulldog takes 30–45 minutes. A full-coated Standard Poodle takes 2–3 hours. Groomers price by time and difficulty, not just size.
Breeds with the highest grooming costs:
- Standard Poodle: $80–$120+ (complex cuts, scissor work)
- Goldendoodle/Labradoodle: $75–$130 (thick, tangle-prone coats)
- Old English Sheepdog: $90–$140 (massive coat volume)
- Afghan Hound: $85–$130 (long, silky coat needs careful handling)
- Bichon Frise: $60–$90 (scissor-finish styling)
3. Location
Grooming prices vary significantly by region. Urban areas with higher rents and cost of living charge more. A standard groom might cost $50 in a rural town and $100+ in Manhattan or San Francisco.
4. Groomer Experience and Certifications
A National Certified Master Groomer (NCMG) has invested thousands of hours in training and certification. Their work is typically superior, and their prices reflect that expertise. You're paying for skill, not just time.
5. Salon Type
Different grooming environments have different pricing:
- Mobile grooming: 20–40% premium for the convenience of coming to your home. Expect $80–$150+ for a full groom.
- Salon grooming: Standard pricing. Most options fall here.
- Big-box stores (PetSmart, Petco): Often 10–20% cheaper, but longer wait times and higher groomer-to-dog ratios.
6. Behavioral Challenges
Some groomers charge a surcharge ($10–$25) for dogs that bite, thrash, or need two handlers. This isn't punitive — it reflects the extra time, care, and safety equipment needed. If your dog is anxious, a positive early grooming experience makes all the difference.
Tipping Your Dog Groomer
This is the question no one wants to ask. Yes, you should tip your dog groomer. Here's the standard:
- 15–20% is standard for good service (same as a hair salon)
- $5–$10 minimum even on smaller services like a nail trim
- 20%+ if your groomer handled a difficult coat, anxious dog, or went above and beyond
Dog grooming is physically demanding work. Your groomer is lifting heavy dogs, standing for hours, working with sharp tools near unpredictable animals, and often dealing with skin conditions, parasites, and other unpleasant surprises. The tip is earned.
If the groomer is the salon owner: Tipping is still appreciated but less expected. Some owners don't accept tips — when in doubt, offer.
How to Save on Grooming Without Cutting Corners
There are smart ways to reduce your grooming bill without compromising your dog's care:
1. Keep a Regular Schedule
The single best way to save money. A well-maintained coat grooms faster and costs less. Skipping appointments to save money usually backfires — the matting surcharge from a missed session can cost more than the appointment you skipped.
2. Brush at Home Between Appointments
15 minutes of brushing every few days keeps the coat manageable. Your groomer will spend less time de-matting, and you'll avoid the "matted dog" upcharge. This alone can save $20–$50 per visit.
3. Ask About Package Deals
Many groomers offer discounts when you prepay for multiple sessions or book on a recurring schedule. A 4-pack of grooms might save you 10–15%. Look for groomers on HeyGroomer who offer recurring booking discounts.
4. Choose the Right Service Level
Not every visit needs a full groom. Alternate between full grooms and bath-and-brush visits. For example:
- Every 4 weeks: Bath and brush ($40)
- Every 8 weeks: Full groom with haircut ($80)
This keeps the coat healthy while cutting your annual spend by about 25%.
5. Don't Skip Nail Trims
Overgrown nails don't just look bad — they can cause gait problems, joint pain, and even broken nails that require a vet visit. A $15 nail trim every 3–4 weeks is much cheaper than a $300 vet bill.
Red Flags: When "Cheap" Grooming Costs You More
Beware of grooming prices that seem too good to be true. Warning signs include:
- No price variation by breed or size — "$30 for any dog" means someone is cutting corners
- Rushing — A full groom in under 45 minutes isn't thorough
- No questions about your dog's temperament or health — Good groomers ask about anxiety, skin issues, and sensitivities
- Unsanitary facilities — Dirty tools, no ventilation, or crowded holding areas
A quality groom from an experienced professional protects your dog's health, keeps their coat in good shape, and catches early signs of skin problems, lumps, or parasites that you might miss.
What You're Actually Paying For
When a groomer quotes you $90, here's roughly where that money goes:
- Groomer's labor: 40–50% (1.5–3 hours of skilled work)
- Products: 10–15% (professional-grade shampoo, conditioner, ear cleaner)
- Facility costs: 20–25% (rent, utilities, equipment maintenance)
- Insurance and supplies: 10–15% (liability insurance, blade sharpening, tools)
The margins in dog grooming are thinner than most people realize. Your groomer isn't getting rich — they're providing skilled, physical labor that keeps your dog healthy and comfortable.